Liam

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Liam

Gender Boy
Origin Celtic
Letters 4
Syllables 1
Pronunciation lee-uhm

Liam, which has 4 letters and 1 syllable, is a male name of Celtic origin.

Meaning of Liam

Determined guardian

Liam is a masculine given name of Irish origin. It is a short form of the name William, derived from the Germanic name Willahelm, meaning "resolute protection".

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(3/5 from 46 votes)
Meaning Determined guardian
Origin Celtic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #1 in 2024 Steady
Rarity (US) Very Popular (Top 10)
Era Modern (peaked 2017)

Background & History of The Name Liam

The name Liam is derived from the Irish name Uilliam, which is the Irish equivalent of William. Liam has been steadily growing in popularity and has become one of the most popular names for boys in recent years. It gained significant attention when it became the name of choice for actor Liam Neeson, known for his roles in movies such as "Taken" and "Schindler's List." The meaning of the name Liam is "resolute protector" or "strong-willed warrior," derived from the Germanic words "wil" meaning "will" or "desire" and "helm" meaning "helmet" or "protection."

Liam's rise in popularity can be attributed to several factors. First, it has a timeless and classic sound that is easy to pronounce and spell. Additionally, it has a strong and masculine feel, which parents often look for when choosing a name for their baby boy. Liam also has international appeal, as it is recognized and appreciated across different cultures and languages.

The name Liam has received attention in popular culture, being featured in various songs, TV shows, and movies. In the music realm, numerous artists have released songs with the name Liam in the title, including Oasis' lead singer Liam Gallagher. Moreover, Liam Payne, a member of the popular boy band One Direction, has contributed to the name's exposure in the music industry.

Overall, the name Liam carries historical significance and has gained popularity due to its appealing sound and meaning. As a timeless and robust name, Liam continues to be a popular choice for parents seeking a strong and memorable name for their baby boy.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Liam over the years.

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Common nicknames and short forms for Liam.

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